DA40 & DA42 Owners, Operators, & Flight Crews,
SERVICE INFORMATION NO. SI 42-098
We would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the importance of complying with a thorough pre-flight inspection in accordance with chapter 4A (Normal Operating Procedures) of the aircraft flight manual. This checklist is put in place in order to help assure consistent safety & serviceability of your aircraft. Failure to operate your aircraft in accordance with the AFM may result in serious damage to your aircraft and pose a safety risk to you and/or your flight crew. This is particularly important for DA42's with diesel engines, as they not only use Jet A fuel, but contamination can have a significant impact on the high pressure fuel system (reference attached DA42 Service Information Letter).
As of late we have seen an increase in calls from maintenance facilities, with regards to contamination of the fuel. Of particular concern are the reports of water contamination. Water in the fuel can have a negative impact on power development and fuel pump operation. If while doing your pre-flight inspection, you find any water in your fuel sample(s), it is imperative that you sump the fuel drains until the fuel shows no further contamination. If the aircraft has been sitting outside for an extended period of time, or the aircraft is not on a level surface, it is a good idea to rock the wings after your initial fuel sampling, wait a short period of time to allow the fuel to settle, and re-sample the fuel again to ensure all water has been removed from the fuel tanks. If you are finding a large or abnormal amount of water in your fuel tanks, please contact your maintenance provider for guidance prior to further operation.
We appreciate your attention to this matter. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Diamond Aircraft Customer Support, and we will be happy to assist.
(519) 457-4041
(519) 963-5075 fax
custsupp@diamondair.com
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